Posts Tagged ‘Ergonomics’

By Ian Rant, True Innovations Inc.

In today’s world, many of us have fast paced, technology charged lifestyles, spending hours interacting with our computers. Whether its long work hours at the office, home-based office spaces or casual home workstations tucked away in the kitchen/den, a universal question emerges: Where will you sit? Most likely—in what is classified as an “office chair.”

The first and most obvious step in selecting the right chair for you is to determine your average maximum time spent seated. This will help you determine the class of chair you require. Each class is equipped with varying ergonomic features to provide unique support levels for specific areas of your body that become fatigued while seated. In some cases, these additional ergonomic features are adjustable to offer a more precise fit for what you may require at that moment.

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Classes of chairs can be broken down as follows: Heavy Use/Task Chair – typically used by receptionists, secretaries, computer programmers, etc. It is moderate in overall size, but rich with adjustable features. These features may include an articulating headrest, adjustable lumbar, height/width adjustable arms, synchro-tilt multi-paddle seat plate and pneumatic height adjustments. Moderate Use/Manager’s Chair – typically used by the middle manager; a user who is up and down many times during the day, balancing working at their computer and spending time in meetings. These chairs are usually mid-back in height, with minimal ergonomic extras for extended use. The overall design has more style than the Heavy Use/Task Chair, reflecting in the elevated position. Executive Chair – This class is similar in mechanical features as the Manager’s Chair, but differs greatly in size and overall style and comfort. This chair is usually high-back, larger and more comfortable than the other two classes, but not suitable for long periods of use. It is designed for the user who sits back, and spends more time on the phone than using the computer on their desk. This chair denotes style and status, but usually comes at a higher price.

 

True is a world class innovator and manufacturer of office furnishings. As an organization we focus on developing unique trend setting product designs that bring amazing design concepts with solutions for nearly any price point. Our business is one where we are vertically integrated, allowing us to have complete control of all phases of product development, manufacturing, distribution, and customer service. Our world class manufacturing plants are second to none, and ensure a quality product is delivered to our consumers worldwide. You can find our products at Staples under several brand names including Serta®, and True Innovations™. Our culture is one where we are never satisfied and are always pushing to improve our products. We believe we have the most talented people in the business and our employees are dedicated to making the company the best in the world.

by: Tri Fit Inc.

When working from home, take time to set up your workstation to maximize comfort, enhance posture and minimize strain or injury. There are many things you can do to make your office ergonomically friendly and build wellness activities into your day. Here are

Tri Fit’s top tips for better health, positive energy and improved performance.

1. Invest in ergonomically adjustable office furniture

Invest in ergonomically adjustable office furniture including an adjustable chair with lower back support, a foot rest and an adjustable keyboard.

2. Set up your workstation to suit your activity

Make sure your workstation is properly positioned for the work that you are doing. Do you spend more time on the phone or computer? In either case, ensure that your posture is well supported for that activity.

Keep workstation tools (computer, keyboard, phone, files, papers) within reach without having to lean, bend, or twist at the waist to avoid back problems.

When typing, adjust your keyboard height so that your wrists are straight when typing and keep elbows close to your side at a 90° angle.

Adjust the tilt of the keyboard: Some people find it more comfortable if the keyboard is flat or tilted slightly down at the top.

Learn to use your short cut keys to minimize your mouse work. Maybe you can use your mouse on the opposite side for achange?

3. Adjust your posture regularly and take frequent short breaks to increase blood flow

To prevent eyestrain and neck pain, situate your body about arms length from the computer screen and keep your neck and head in a neutral position.

Use a headset or Bluetooth when talking on the phone to maintain good posture and stay hands free for typing or searching the internet.

Take regular breaks to increase blood flow. Do an errand on foot rather than taking the car. Take a walk or run at lunch. Take a 5 minute stretch break. March on the spot while talking on the phone.

Arrange a walking meeting. Plan a healthy snack mid morning and mid afternoon such as fresh fruit, nuts and dried fruit or veggies and hummus dip.

4. Stay focused on your priorities

Set an alarm to go off every hour to remind you to get up and move around. This will help you to stay focused and keep on track. Create a To Do list and work it doing first things first.

 

Tri Fit Inc.

Better health, positive energy, strong performance. Corporate clients have seen the bottom line benefits that can be achieved through Tri Fit’s innovative fitness and wellness services. In business since 1978 Tri Fit’s mission is to enhance the personal and organizational health of our clients through wellness programs that are integrated into the culture of the organization. Tri Fit customizes each program by analyzing client resources, employee and organizational needs and interests and the workplace environment. Our approach has resulted in improved employee and organizational health, energy and performance.